The McGowan Government is delivering for regional Western Australia through the new 2023-24 budget that features a massive $11.2 billion investment in regional infrastructure, driving new job opportunities in high tech manufacturing, clean energy, and defence industries.
In a media statement, the government said the state budget includes measures to deliver on the WA Jobs Plan, diversifying regional economies, creating new jobs for the future and developing a pipeline of skills in the regions.
Key initiatives include a $40 million Sustainable Geoscience Investments package to accelerate critical minerals discoveries, ensuring WA is well-placed to grasp economic opportunities as the world works towards a net zero future.
An additional $35 million is allocated for the Industrial Land Development Fund, to support the activation of Strategic Industrial Areas in the Pilbara; and $6.5 million is dedicated to implementing the Western Australian Aquaculture Development Plan.
“Our WA Jobs Plan is working, creating long-term jobs across the State, while diversifying WA’s economy, driving new job opportunities in high tech manufacturing, clean energy, agriculture, tourism and defence industries,” Premier Mark McGowan stated.
The premier went on to say that the budget continues the state‘s record of delivering for regional WA, helping to ease the cost of living pressures.
“My Government is investing a record amount into regional infrastructure, and delivering a significant boost for health and housing in the regions,” he noted.
McGowan added, “We are committed to keeping the community safe, with our Budget including important investments into regional policing and programs targeting at-risk young people.”
Furthermore, among the key measures in the budget is the $2 million from the New Industries Fund to support regional entrepreneurs in the innovation sector as well as $53 million on new and improved school infrastructure in regional WA.
To further signify investment in upskilling, the budget has allocated $2.5 million to increase the travel accommodation allowance for regional TAFE students and $2.9 million to provide a weekly allowance for regional students studying a Diploma of Nursing.
For more information on the 2023-24 budget, visit www.ourstatebudget.wa.gov.au
